We get something of a curveball episode this time, in more ways then one.
The first being that someone other then Taichi (
REJOICE) gets the spotlight for a change.
The second being the fact we get some actual insight and substance from a character.
The third being that it is from Patamon (and to an extent Takeru). 2020 seems to be taking a leaf from Xros in that respect.
You might add Pegasusmon onto that list, though we had a distinct clue in regards to the episode's title beforehand. But I for one am just glad it wasn't some dirty fake-out and we'd instead end up with something like Greymon sporting angel wings... ¬_¬
If the inclusion of 'Be the Winners' is any indication, this time he is treated as a regular Adult in this continuity as opposed to following the armour mechanics of 02. But still with enough power to tackle an opponent at least one level above. Though it's difficult to gauge what major difference there is between the two. That it might function similar to a reverse of the human/beast spirits from Frontier.
Whilst the specifics are as usual very vague in regards to how this kind of evolution actually works, it may be meant to serve as a possible setup to something similar in the future, such as Blitzgreymon/Cresgarurumon. And whilst I'm not doubting that eventually we'll be seeing Angemon again, I would find it amusingly ironic that what with people creaming themselves over Ophanimon, we got Goddramon as a trade off.
One noticeable thing in the Patamon/Lopmon mind meld moment is a cameo appearance by Blackseraphimon. Whether this is meant to serve as some kind of metaphor for the corruption, or that he deliberately powered down in order to slow it somehow is up for your interpretation.
Much like every other time the kids encounter a single perfect enemy, Cerberumon is conveniently strong enough to match whatever number of Partners at the same level are put up against him. Though it does allow Pegasusmon to put on a respectable performance whilst not relying on having him do all the work. Which automatically makes it better then countless other times spent watching Metalgreymon doing his usual routine.
At this point we should be desensitized to the fact the kids insist on riding their partners into battle whenever possible, but one can't help but raise an eyebrow at when Pegasusmon does a Rodeo Gallop with Takeru clinging onto his back. If he'd lost his grip that could have ended up going very badly.
Whilst all this is going on, Mimi is apparently off having what looks like a more interesting storyline. Likewise it is also clear now just how meaningful Joe's role is in all this.
*****
"No worries. Last episode I survived getting swept up in a tornado of fire after all."
